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Committee opinion no. 616: Newborn screening and the role of the obstetrician-gynecologist. Newborn screening is a mandatory state-based public health program that provides all newborns in the United States with presymptomatic testing and necessary follow-up health care for a variety of medical conditions. The goal of this essential public health program is to decrease morbidity and mortality by screening for disorders in which early intervention will improve neonatal and long-term health outcomes. The results of surveys and focus groups of expectant parents demonstrate that women and their families would like to receive information about newborn screening during their prenatal care visits. Providing newborn screening information during prenatal care visits can be accomplished in a number of ways and should be adapted to individual practice style.